Officials struggle to keep visitors out of closed Maui parks

2017-03-08T14:45:52Z2017-03-08T14:45:52Z

(Image: DLNR)

WAILUKU, Hawaii (AP) - Though hazardous conditions caused by flooding have closed two parks on Maui, many tourists are still trying to visit.

The Maui News reports that park officials and residents say they have to turn visitors away from Kepaniwai Park and Iao Valley State Monument every day despite signage and notices denoting the parks' closure.

State Department of Land and Natural Resources say work began last week to stabilize the bank alongside the Iao Valley parking lot. With heavy equipment present, hikers could be injured or delay work.

Heavy rains and flooding in September damaged homes and portions of both parks, which have been closed and under repair ever since. Officials say Kepaniwai is three to six weeks away from reopening. Iao Valley is slated to reopen in June.

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